There are some detective anime that fans shouldn’t miss at any cost. Detective anime from the ’90s, 2000s, and 2010s encompass different genres like horror, supernatural, psychological, and comedy. There’s a detective anime for everyone out there, and the best part is that all of them have aired, which means viewers can binge-watch all the episodes in one go.
Anime has an incredible ability to transport viewers into different worlds and immerse them in captivating stories. For fans of mystery and crime-solving, the detective genre in anime offers a unique blend of suspense, intellect, and thrilling narratives. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of detective anime and explore 10 must-watch series that have set the standard for the genre. These anime are not only effective in delivering intriguing mysteries but also offer attractive elements that will keep you glued to the screen.
- “Death Note”:
“Death Note” is a masterpiece of psychological suspense. The story follows Light Yagami, a brilliant high school student who stumbles upon a mysterious notebook known as the Death Note. With the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it, Light sets out to rid the world of criminals and become a god-like figure known as Kira. However, his actions attract the attention of the enigmatic detective L, leading to a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
“Death Note” is a must-watch for its morally complex storyline and the intense battle of wits between Light and L. It delves into themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of absolute power. The anime keeps you on the edge of your seat as you try to decipher who will outsmart whom.
- “Detective Conan”:
“Detective Conan,” also known as “Case Closed,” is one of the longest-running detective anime series, and for good reason. The story revolves around Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant high school detective who is transformed into a child after being exposed to a mysterious poison. Taking on the alias Conan Edogawa, he continues solving cases while searching for a cure to return to his original form.
What sets “Detective Conan” apart is its vast array of mysteries and intricate cases. With over 1000 episodes, the series offers a rich tapestry of puzzles, crimes, and compelling characters. Each case is a standalone mystery, but there is also an overarching plot that gradually unravels, adding depth to the series.
- “Monster”:
“Monster” is a psychological thriller that dives deep into the darkness of the human psyche. Dr. Kenzou Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon, saves the life of a young boy named Johan Liebert, only to later discover that Johan has become a ruthless serial killer. The series follows Tenma’s relentless pursuit of Johan, taking viewers on a gripping journey through Europe.
What makes “Monster” exceptional is its exploration of moral ambiguity and complex characters. It challenges the viewers to ponder questions about good and evil, justice, and the consequences of one’s actions. The anime is a masterclass in storytelling, gradually revealing layers of a sinister conspiracy while keeping you hooked with its intricate mysteries.
- “Gosick”:
Set in a beautifully crafted fictional European country in the early 20th century, “Gosick” offers a unique blend of historical elements and detective storytelling. The series follows Kazuya Kujo, a transfer student, and Victorique de Blois, a brilliant but eccentric girl. Together, they tackle intricate mysteries that baffle even the local police.
“Gosick” stands out for its charming romance subplot and the delightful chemistry between Kazuya and Victorique. The mysteries themselves are cleverly constructed, and the setting adds a sense of grandeur to the series. Whether it’s solving murders, deciphering cryptic messages, or uncovering hidden secrets, “Gosick” delivers an engaging and visually stunning detective experience.
- “Psycho-Pass”:
“Psycho-Pass” takes the detective genre to a dystopian future where society is controlled by the Sibyl System, a powerful AI that assesses a person’s mental state to determine their threat level. The Public Safety Bureau’s Criminal Investigation Division, led by Inspector Akane Tsunemori, employs the Dominator, a weapon that enforces justice based on a person’s Psycho-Pass.
The brilliance of “Psycho-Pass” lies in its thought-provoking exploration of crime, justice, and the human psyche. It raises questions about the price of security and the ethical dilemmas of maintaining order in a high-tech society. The series is a rollercoaster of intense action, complex characters, and a richly developed world that keeps you pondering long after the credits roll.
- “Hyouka”:
“Hyouka” takes a more subdued yet equally captivating approach to the detective genre. The story centers on Oreki Houtarou, a high school student with a talent for conserving energy. His life takes an unexpected turn when he joins the Classic Literature Club and finds himself solving everyday mysteries alongside the inquisitive Chitanda Eru.
What makes “Hyouka” special is its focus on character development and subtle storytelling. While the mysteries may seem trivial compared to some other series, they are beautifully woven into the fabric of the characters’ lives. The anime reminds us that even the smallest puzzles can be engaging, and it does so with elegance and charm.
- “Paranoia Agent” :
“Paranoia Agent” is a psychological thriller that takes a surreal and unsettling approach to detective storytelling. When a mysterious assailant known as Lil’ Slugger starts terrorizing the city, two detectives, Keiichi Ikari and Mitsuhiro Maniwa, are assigned to investigate. However, they soon find themselves delving into a world of paranoia and madness.
What sets “Paranoia Agent” apart is its exploration of psychological trauma and the collective fears of society. The series crafts a unique and unsettling atmosphere that leaves viewers questioning reality. It challenges the boundaries of sanity and perception, making it a mind-bending journey that’s both intellectually stimulating and deeply unsettling.
- “The Perfect Insider”:
“The Perfect Insider” combines mystery with philosophy in a thought-provoking narrative. The story revolves around Professor Souhei Saikawa, a brilliant mind in the field of research, and Moe Nishinosono, his inquisitive student. Together, they find themselves involved in a murder mystery that occurs on a remote island.
“The Perfect Insider” is a cerebral detective anime that explores themes of intellect, isolation, and the intricacies of human relationships. It challenges viewers to contemplate the nature of truth and perception while unraveling the complex layers of the murder case. The series boasts a slow-burning, dialogue-driven storytelling style that rewards patient viewers with a profound and intellectually stimulating experience.
- “Terror in Resonance”:
“Terror in Resonance” is a gripping anime that blurs the lines between detective and psychological thriller genres. It tells the story of two enigmatic terrorists, Nine and Twelve, who orchestrate a series of high-stakes bombings in Tokyo. They leave behind cryptic clues that catch the attention of the police, specifically detective Kenjiro Shibazaki.
What makes “Terror in Resonance” stand out is its complex characters and morally ambiguous storytelling. The anime explores the consequences of societal
